Maroc Telecom settles $640 million in damages with Inwi for unfair competition practices. This historic settlement, marking the largest ever penalty in Morocco’s telecom sector, underscores the increasing regulatory scrutiny and competitiveness in the telecommunications market.
Morocco’s telecommunications sector saw significant growth in the first half of 2024, with the subscriber base reaching 59.8 million, driven by a 5% increase in mobile users. Internet subscriptions also grew by 6.9%, surpassing 39.1 million, reflecting the country’s digital transformation and resulting in a mobile penetration rate of 152.1%.
Morocco is leading Africa in AI adoption, with 80% of its population aware of ChatGPT and 38% actively using it, according to a BCG survey. This positions Morocco as a global leader in embracing AI technology, driven by a tech-savvy population and strategic investments in digital infrastructure and education.
Mustapha Meloui, President of the Moroccan Observatory for Digital Sovereignty, highlighted Morocco’s strides toward becoming a leading “Digital Nation” in Africa, backed by strong ICT metrics and national programs. The upcoming “Maroc Digital 2030” strategy aims to position Morocco as a premier digital hub on the continent.
Libya, Morocco, and Seychelles lead Africa in ICT development, as per the ITU’s 2024 report. Despite improvements across the continent, disparities remain, with Libya scoring 88.1 points and Chad at the bottom with 21.3 points.
Morocco has given telecom companies a three-month deadline to identify all anonymous phone numbers or face suspension of these lines. This initiative aims to enhance security and accountability in the telecommunications sector by ensuring all phone numbers are properly identified and linked to their respective owners.
Morocco’s conference on trade digitalisation, supported by EBRD and ICC, focuses on reducing costs and increasing transparency. Key discussions include legal frameworks, international initiatives, and the importance of digital infrastructure. The event aims to align Morocco’s trade procedures with global standards, benefiting its economy and integration into the global market.
Weego, founded by Saâd Jittou and Mor Niane, is a Moroccan e-mobility startup improving urban transport by offering ride-hailing, carpooling, and real-time shuttle tracking. Available on iOS and Android, Weego reduces travel time, enhances public transport use, and lowers transport costs for users and companies.
Connect Money, an Egyptian fintech startup, raised $8 million in seed funding to expand in Egypt and Morocco. The funds will support new business verticals and enhance technological capabilities. Founded in 2024, Connect Money offers a white-label card issuing platform and various financial solutions, aiming to transform banking operations in North Africa.
Morocco is witnessing a significant surge in mobile and internet usage, with mobile phone subscriptions exceeding 55.4 million in Q1 2024 and an internet penetration rate of 103.5%. This growth reflects the country’s ongoing digital transformation, driven by improved telecommunications infrastructure and increasing affordability.
